2008 Volkswagen R32

Asking Price Range

Estimated MPG

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), also known as "sticker" price, is a recommended selling price that automakers give a new car that is above the invoice price paid by the dealer. It is a price that does not include any options that can be added to a particular car style. When shown as a range, the prices are starting MSRPs, without options, for multiple styles for that model.

This price range reflects for-sale prices on Cars.com for this particular make, model and year.

These city and highway gas mileage estimates are for the model's standard trim configurations. Where there are optional features, packages or equipment that result in higher gas mileage, those fuel-economy estimates are not included here.

Summary

Expert Reviews 1 of 5

By Joe Wiesenfelder

Cars.com National

April 21, 2007

Vehicle OverviewAfter the success of its limited-production 2004 R32, Volkswagen is bringing out a new version based on the redesigned Rabbit/GTI. What distinguishes the R32 from the GTI is its 3.2-liter six-cylinder and 4Motion all-wheel drive. Unlike the GTI, the R32 will be produced only as a two-door.

ExteriorAlso distinguishing the R32 from the GTI are its wider, lower stance, centered dual tailpipes, and yet another interpretation of the new plunging VW grille that incorporates brushed aluminum. Side skirts further the ground-hugging look. A rear roof spoiler and a moonroof are standard.

Through the 18-inch multispoke wheels can be seen blue brake calipers and extra large discs. The all-wheel drive might attract foul-weather buyers, but the R32 comes with summer performance tires that aren't the best choice for snow and ice.

The R32 will be offered in blue, gray, red and white.

InteriorThe interior has R logos on its heated leather sport seats and on the stainless steel pedals. The austere but high-quality interior has metallic trim on the dashboard and steering wheel, which also bears a number telling you which of the 5,000 R32s that are being produced you bought.

Under the HoodThe GTI comes only with an excellent 200-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The R32's 3.2-liter generates 250 hp and more than 230 pounds-feet of torque. The 3.2-liter, which is the source of the 32 in the model name, is a staggered inline-six — or what VW has traditionally called a VR6. (It's not a true V-6 because it has one head; the odd-numbered cylinders are offset by 15 degrees.) VW says the R32 sprints to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds.

The 2004 R32 was fun to drive, but a bit front-heavy. Now, in place of the Quattro AWD system — which split the torque 50/50 between the front and rear wheels — is a 4Matic system that apportions up to 75 percent of the torque to the rear wheels for better balance and handling.

The well-regarded Direct Shift Gearbox, an automated six-speed manual, is standard. There's no plan for a true manual transmission.

SafetySafety features include antilock brakes with brake assist, an electronic stability system and six airbags, including side curtains and side torso airbags for the front seats.